74. Develop TODs around existing infrastructure

So often with Transit Oriented Developments (TODs), municipalities stop short of fully embracing the opportunities because they don’t have light rail. Taking a cue from the City of Bogota‘s TransMilenio BRT system, regional cities like Indianapolis are starting with buses to spur growth.

As South Bend has invested in a new pedestrian friendly street system, incorporating bus focused TOD’s can supplement the programming necessary to make the “Smart Streets” more successful.

Planning around TODs shows how we can take corridors that South Bend has focused on (West Side Main Streets and William/Lafayette/Michigan/Main/St. Joseph streets downtown) and leverage their improvements to create a more integrated transit network that continues to emphasize pedestrians.

Linking these nodes helps create the coverage and connectivity necessary to ensure the system is most equitable and effective in its reach. – Screen capture from ASLA’s “Designing for Active Living” video